My axolotl is used to warm water. Is a chiller safe for its health?

Check water chemistry and temperature first. Axolotls are very sensitive to changes in either. If ammonia or nitrites are elevated, perform partial water changes using conditioned water that is temperature matched. They do best between 60 F and 64 F. Water temp above 75 F is stressful. Fast her for a few days to see if she passes a large amount of stool. If she does, resume feeding her as scheduled. If she doesn't improve, consider "fridging" her to reduce stress and allow for recovery. You can read about the fridging routine at the link below. https://www.caudata.org/forum/showthread.php?t=85263

Thanks for reaching out about Cherub and including a picture. Amphibians are delicate animals and water quality is very important. Testing the wear quality regularly (at least once daily) for pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate are a must. Any abnormalities need to be addressed as soon as possible. Water also must be kept cool and stable. Amphibians do not do well with temperature changes. A varied insect diet also is important. Live insects, kept in good condition, will provide a wide variety of vitamins and mineral, protein and fat. Read up on what you need to do and b proactive with problems.

Check the water quality and temperature. Perform partial water changes every few days to maintain pristine water quality. Use only conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent further stress or shock. Clean water is the foundation for healing and recovery. If there is no change, consider an exam with your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating axolotls. They can be sensitive to medications, so a doctor's advice after an exam would be safest.

A combination of salt baths and fridging may ease symptoms. If liver failure has been diagnosed, this is usually a terminal illness. Recommended salt concentration is 2-3 teaspoons of aquarium salt per liter of dechlorinated water. Baths should be 10-15 minutes duration. Fridging can be done in conjunction to reduce stress and aid in recovery. There is a guide to fridging at the link below. http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/85263-axolotl-fridging-guide.html

Treating him yourself would not be recommended as you may cause injury. If the rock was small, he may eventually pass it. Maintain pristine water quality and proper temp. Monitor his appetite and stool output. If there is a veterinarian nearby with experience treating axolotls, then an exam would be strongly recommended in case surgery is required to remove the rock. Fridging Nox may also be recommended. You can read more about the process at the link below. https://www.caudata.org/axolotl-sanctuary/Fridging.shtml

You can angle it so water flow is directed against the side of the tank. Another option would be to make, or buy, a spray bar. This will significantly decrease water flow. A good old fashioned sponge filter set up can also be used. Lastly, you can opt for no filter. You'll need to monitor chemistry closely and perform more frequent water changes though. The websites below are excellent resources for additional information. https://www.caudata.org https://www.axolotl.org

Thanks for reaching out about your axolotl. Fungal spore are ubiquitous in the environment but a UV sterilizer can help. There are anti-fungal treatments to add to the water or dip treatments that could also help. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Fungal infections are usually secondary problems, so review environmental parameters such as water temperatures, pH, ammonia, nitrates and nitrites. Review diet to ensure well rounded nutrients. If wanted, you can arrange for a private consultation. Good luck.